Xbox Bowl Replaces Bahamas Bowl Permanently in ESPN Postseason Schedule
ESPN Events has officially replaced the Bahamas Bowl with the Xbox Bowl. The inaugural Xbox Bowl will take place on December 18, featuring Missouri State against Arkansas State. This matchup will occur at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, and is scheduled for a 9 p.m. ET kickoff, broadcast live on ESPN2.
Transition from Bahamas Bowl to Xbox Bowl
The Bahamas Bowl faced challenges in recent years, ultimately leading to its discontinuation. The 2023 edition was shelved due to renovations at the Thomas Robinson Stadium in Nassau, prompting a temporary relocation to Charlotte. Although the Bahamas Bowl returned last season, it was noted for an incident involving Liberty’s head coach Jamey Chadwell wearing a controversial t-shirt during a loss to Buffalo.
2025 and Future Plans
In June 2025, ESPN confirmed that the Bahamas Bowl would not be hosted that year, stating that its existing conference tie-ins would be satisfied through other ESPN events. This announcement opened the opportunity for the establishment of the Xbox Bowl.
Details of the Xbox Bowl
The Xbox Bowl introduces the gaming brand as its new title sponsor, marking Xbox’s entry into college football’s postseason landscape. The partnership aims to enhance fan engagement, with planned Xbox-themed activities throughout the event.
Chris Lee, Vice President of Xbox Marketing, stated that they are focused on connecting fans, whether they are attending the game, watching from home, or enjoying the experience with friends.
The Future of Bowl Season
The transition from the Bahamas Bowl to the Xbox Bowl represents a significant shift in college bowl culture. With its unique branding and gaming-themed activations, the Xbox Bowl aims to bring a new flavor to postseason college football.
As bowl season evolves, fans can expect a blend of tradition and innovation making for a distinctive experience.
